”Degenerate and wayward youths” ”The boys line up in two rows in the courtyard, from where the duty officer leads them down to the basement. Here they are handed out a comb and basic soap, after which they are instructed to wash themselves according to prescribed procedures. The duty officer has to ensure that the whole process is carried out in silence, without any conversation or undue noise.” Ulfnæsøens Boarding School, 1882 During the 1800s Norwegian municipalities established boarding schools for “degenerate and wayward youths”, later called “School Homes”. The boys were to be inculcated with traditional values –keeping things in order, a sense of duty, and respect for the authorities. The days were strictly regulated with classroom lessons and manual labour. Punishment for misbehaviour could be forfeiting meals, caning or being locked away. On average, the boys were 12 years old, and their boarding school stay lasted three years. Photo: Bjerkan/Falstadsenteret, c.1915.